Chaand or Chand Raat is also known as the ‘The night of the moon.’ This is the literal translation, as it begins with the sighting of the first new moon after the start of Ramadan.
It is an occasion that marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated on the eve of Eid-ul-Fitr. Depending on the sighting of this new moon, Ramadan can either be 29 or 30 days.
Chaand Raat also marks the eve of the month of Shawwal, therefore, the following day of Eid-ul-Fitr marks the first day of Shawwal which is the 10th month in the Islamic calendar.
Chaand Raat is a time of celebration when families and friends gather in open areas at the end of the last day of Ramadan to spot the new moon. As soon as the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee (Moon Sighting Committee) announces the sighting of the new moon, the Muslim community is informed via announcements made from mosques, television channels and radio stations.
On acknowledgement of this people wish each other Chaand Raat Mubarak “Have a blessed night of the new moon” or Eid Mubarak “have a blessed Eid.”
As soon as the announcements are made, the festivities begin and can continue all night until the morning Fajr prayer. In some countries, these festivities are often televised for entertainment purposes.
Family and friends go shopping at local bazaars, markets and shopping malls in preparation for Eid the following day. It’s common for local communities to arrange fayres in commemoration of this night, in which neighbourhood’s come together to shop, eat and welcome the month of Shawwal and the festival of Eid. The fayre often includes clothing, jewellery, henna tattooing, games, arts and crafts activities. Make-up and jewellery, along with a number of other fashion items are also often for sale at these fayres. Fancy fashion items, like hijabs, niqabs and abayas are available for women, especially in preparation for Eid. Whereas the Men enjoy the array of delicious foods and take this opportunity in treating their wives and children to new clothes and accessories, often bangles (churiya).
Barbershops and beauty salons are also visited during Chaand Raat in preparation for Eid the following day. Gifts and sweets are bought for friends, while toys are bought for children.
These elegant Eid Mubarak Cake Toppers will help in showcasing your delicious Eid treats and bakes.
Henna tattooing is a signature tradition of Islamic celebrations for women. Elaborate patterns are drawn with henna onto their hands and feet. This creative tradition is a chance for individuals to showcase their henna skills, often creating a competitive yet joyful atmosphere amongst siblings and cousins.
Some say this special time is similar to Christmas Eve, in terms of preparation and anticipation for Christmas.
Send your Eid wishings in our stunning Eid Mubarak Greeting Cards.
During Chaand Raat, hanging decorations such as our Lantern Honeycombs, decorative lights are also used to mark the occasion and are put up in markets, public buildings, homes and mosques.
Chaand Raat is both a religious and socially significant time as it celebrates the togetherness of the entire community.
Shop from our Chaand Raat range now.
